Job Discussion Forums

bgrocky72 · Joined: 30 Jul 2009 Posts: 13

I JUST got certified to teach Secondary Education in the State of Illinois (6-12) and took interest in teaching abroad. However, I am having trouble finding where to start (they don't include teaching abroad in the Career Center speech). So, I have just a few questions. But first, this is what I am looking for and want out of the experience:

I want to experience a new culture and absorb some of its history and roots. But, I also want to have some Western luxuries involved. I am young (24) and let's be honest, looking to have a good time (drinking, hanging out, meeting new women). Yet, of course, I want to save some money. With all that being said, I am very patient in learning a new culture, language, and people. I am trying to decide between- Japan, Korea, and Thailand right now. So here are some questions:

1. Where to start? For example, where should I post resumes? What sort of job would I expect to get with- Bachelor's in English, certified to teach English grades 6-12, experience: student teaching.

2. Is JET still around? I thought so because of some of the posts, but I heard from a friend that they are finished. I would be interested, but I think I would be too late to apply for fall.

3. I want to go sometime in the fall, when should I start sending out my resume?

Sorry for the long post- I have a lot of questions. I very much appreciate the help I receive from this site, the posters here are very friendly and willing to help. Thank you.

mushroomyakuza · Joined: 17 Sep 2009 Posts: 140

I'm no expert, so take this with a pinch of salt, but...

1) TEFL.com is a good basic starting point. It's where I found my future job teaching in Japan.

2) JET is still around, but I'd recommend you just google that yourself. Easiest way is to cut straight to the source.

3) I could be wrong about this, but apply now. Yeah it's long in advance, but these companies are looking to recruit all year round in preparation for visas, arrangements, teachers dropping out, returning home etc. I don't think there's any harm in applying now, just specifiy that you want to go in fall.

BTW, I'm from the UK, so things may be slightly different for you being in the USA.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

bgrocky72 · Joined: 30 Jul 2009 Posts: 13

I appreciate both of your comments and advice. It is a place to start, now I simply have to start looking and get my resume out there I suppose. I want to wait until August/September because I need to finish two courses here to have a middle school endorsement...unfortunately, they won't be offered at an earlier date.

When do employers start advertising/requesting applications for August and September start dates?

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

bgrocky72 · Joined: 30 Jul 2009 Posts: 13

Thanks glenski, you have been very helpful.